Open Enrollment is Over – But Health Insurance is Still Available

Open Enrollment is Over – But Health Insurance is Still Available

January 31, 2018

Open Enrollment is Over – But Health Insurance is Still Available

Consumer Health Coalition offers year-round health insurance enrollment assistance. The Open Enrollment period ended on December 15, 2017. Consumers who didn’t sign up can still enroll in 2018 coverage if they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, or SEP. There is no deadline for Medicaid or CHIP in Pennsylvania, and consumers can apply at any time during the year.

In order to qualify for an SEP, consumers must have experienced certain life changes. These include:

Losing other health insurance, including Medicaid or CHIP (not for non-payment)

Getting married

Having a child or adopting a child

Permanent move to a new area, such as a new ZIP code or county

Gaining U.S. Citizenship

Leaving incarceration

Special circumstances:

Applied for Medicaid or CHIP during Open Enrollment and received a denial notice after December 15, 2017

Health insurance policy was discontinued

This is a time-sensitive issue! Consumers who qualify for an SEP must enroll within 60 days of the life event. In some cases, consumers must show proof that they qualify for the SEP, such as providing a letter from the insurance company listing the final day of coverage, or a copy of a new child’s birth certificate.

Anyone who thinks they may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period may contact our helpline at 412-456-1877. CHC’s Certified Navigators are available to provide free education and enrollment assistance. Consumers can also use Healthcare.gov’s SEP screening tool.